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Who We Are

Since the formation of the Seventy Ninth Group just three years ago, the company has grown rapidly. Founded by The Webster Family, who have acquired over thirty years of experience within the real estate sector, the company has become a leading force within both the property and natural resources market thanks to their ability to target, acquire and add value to assets using their unique model. The staff here at the Seventy Ninth Group have also become an extension of this family, with our strong values, such as reliability and loyalty, at the forefront of what we do.

Our Story

Mining operation in Kankan

Following the success of their commodity supply chain management business for The Gunvor Group, David and Jake set up a profitable alluvial mining operation in Kankan, a city in the North East of the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. During this time, both David & Jake became widely respected by central government and local communities for their commitment to Guinea during and after the Ebola crisis, as other multinational companies suspended their mining operations.

Lusso Tesoro

Lusso Tesoro was founded. David and Jake targeted the acquisition of further mining concessions within the Republic of Guinea’s Siguiri Basin region, utilising the family’s extensive experience in the Real Estate and mining sectors. By working with local partners, communities and companies, the Websters gained invaluable experience and established further essential relationships within the country.

79th Luxury Living

Following the establishment of Lusso Tesoro, David and Jake – now back in the UK – founded 79th Luxury Living, a family-owned and managed real-estate investment company. The duo also expanded their operational team in the Republic of Guinea to accommodate the company’s unprecedented growth.

During this time, multiple investment securites were launched across both companies, and each business began to work with private investors across the globe in order to fund numerous projects across the real estate and natural resources sectors.

The Seventy Ninth Group

The Seventy Ninth Group, a parent company for operations across the real estate and natural resources sectors was founded by our board of directors in order to prepare the company and each of its subsidiaries for future expansion.

By the end of the year, the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries were working closely with over three hundred private and institutional investors from over 23 different countries. Due to the business’ rapid and unprecedented growth, numerous key directors from areas such as compliance and regulation were appointed to The 79th Group’s board of directors; amongst these appointments were Adriènne Kelbie CBE and Andy Cole CBE.

Unprecedented growth

Unprecedented growth 2021 saw the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries undergo unprecedented levels of growth. By the end of the year, the team had expanded by over 50% in a number of key areas including compliance, Human Resources and capital markets, and had received accreditation from recognised organisations such as the United Nations Global Compact, Green Mark and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Due to the company’s expansion into additional markets across the globe as well as the launch of a record number of projects across the United Kingdom’s real estate sectors, the Seventy Ninth Group has become one of the UK’s fastest growing asset management companies, renowned for its expertise operating in distressed market conditions.

Throughout the course of the year, the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries launched multiple unregulated and regulated investment securities in order to fund ongoing and future projects. In particular, its natural resources divisional growth meant that the company is now West Africa’s largest natural resources divisional growth meant that the company is now West Africa’s largest natural resource owner and operator by number of resource concessions under ownership. The continued success of the Seventy Ninth Group has also captured the attention of a number of awarding bodies, leading to the company and its subsidiaries winning the Best Business Award 2021 at the Best Business Awards and Outstanding Fast-Growth Business at the 2021 Global Business Excellence Awards.

Mining operation in Kankan

Following the success of their commodity supply chain management business for The Gunvor Group, David and Jake set up a profitable alluvial mining operation in Kankan, a city in the North East of the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. During this time, both David & Jake became widely respected by central government and local communities for their commitment to Guinea during and after the Ebola crisis, as other multinational companies suspended their mining operations.

Lusso Tesoro

Lusso Tesoro was founded. David and Jake targeted the acquisition of further mining concessions within the Republic of Guinea’s Siguiri Basin region, utilising the family’s extensive experience in the Real Estate and mining sectors. By working with local partners, communities and companies, the Websters gained invaluable experience and established further essential relationships within the country.

79th Luxury Living

Following the establishment of Lusso Tesoro, David and Jake – now back in the UK – founded 79th Luxury Living, a family-owned and managed real-estate investment company. The duo also expanded their operational team in the Republic of Guinea to accommodate the company’s unprecedented growth.

During this time, multiple investment securites were launched across both companies, and each business began to work with private investors across the globe in order to fund numerous projects across the real estate and natural resources sectors.

The Seventy Ninth Group

The Seventy Ninth Group, a parent company for operations across the real estate and natural resources sectors was founded by our board of directors in order to prepare the company and each of its subsidiaries for future expansion.

By the end of the year, the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries were working closely with over three hundred private and institutional investors from over 23 different countries. Due to the business’ rapid and unprecedented growth, numerous key directors from areas such as compliance and regulation were appointed to The 79th Group’s board of directors; amongst these appointments were Adriènne Kelbie CBE and Andy Cole CBE.

Unprecedented growth

Unprecedented growth 2021 saw the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries undergo unprecedented levels of growth. By the end of the year, the team had expanded by over 50% in a number of key areas including compliance, Human Resources and capital markets, and had received accreditation from recognised organisations such as the United Nations Global Compact, Green Mark and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Due to the company’s expansion into additional markets across the globe as well as the launch of a record number of projects across the United Kingdom’s real estate sectors, the Seventy Ninth Group has become one of the UK’s fastest growing asset management companies, renowned for its expertise operating in distressed market conditions.

Throughout the course of the year, the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries launched multiple unregulated and regulated investment securities in order to fund ongoing and future projects. In particular, its natural resources divisional growth meant that the company is now West Africa’s largest natural resources divisional growth meant that the company is now West Africa’s largest natural resource owner and operator by number of resource concessions under ownership. The continued success of the Seventy Ninth Group has also captured the attention of a number of awarding bodies, leading to the company and its subsidiaries winning the Best Business Award 2021 at the Best Business Awards and Outstanding Fast-Growth Business at the 2021 Global Business Excellence Awards.

Our Team

Dave Webster

Chairman

Jake Webster

Managing Director

Curtis Webster

Investment Director

Natalie Bellis

Chief Executive Officer

Andy Cole CBE

Board Advisor

Adriènne Kelbie CBE

Board Advisor

Genevieve Pearson

Non-Executive Director

Gary Pitts

Board Advisor

Derek Brett

Board Advisor

Sara Popplewell

Chief Marketing Officer

Alicia McMahon

Head of Human Resources

Christopher Johnson

Head of Corporate

Ashley Weston

Head of Operations

Simon Larkin

Marketing and Communications Manager

Dave Eastwood

Marketing Manager

Lydia Ruiter

Compliance Manager

Jennifer Salcedo

Business Support Manager

Amy Jones

Client Support & Onboarding Manager

Eleanor Longworth

Interim Onboarding Manager

Georgia Peach

Senior Account Manager

Liene Buklagina

Account Manager

Leo Bilal

Account Manager

Olivia Cassim

Account Manager

Jessica Pavier

Administration Manager

Sam Jones

Onboarding SME

Chloe Cassim

Senior Client Relationship Officer

Ellis Harper

Client Relationship Officer

Penelope Bennett

Client Relationship Officer & Account Manager

Sean Berry

Onboarding Executive

Jack Gallagher

Onboarding Executive

Craig Johnson

Onboarding Officer

Cristina Mason

Onboarding Officer

Rebecca Johnson

Client Relationship Officer

Michelle Mercer

Onboarding Officer

Matthew Whittaker

Onboarding Officer

Paige Moran

Onboarding Officer

Rebecca Lloyd

Onboarding Executive

Heather Crompton

Client Onboarding Administrator

Amber Disley

Quality Assurance Administrator

Anastasia Lawrence

Quality Assurance Coordinator

Ethan Webster

Strategic Partner Associate

Georgia Dutton

Design Manager

Adam Myers

Graphic Designer

Marianne Rose

Marketing Strategy Manager

Suzanne Wolohan

Marketing Analyst

Hannah Gregg

Marketing Executive

Sam Gerken

Marketing Executive

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Lauren Hughes

Finance Team Leader

Martin Smith

Property Finance Officer

Josh Partington

Project Finance Officer

Yasmine Bessaih

Group Fund Manager

Emma Cox

Facilities Manager

Emily Reeder

Executive Administration Assistant

Joseph Mawdsley

Project Manager

Ben Lawrence

IT Technician

Mia Lock-Ratcliffe

Risk & Compliance Coordinator

Dave Webster

Chairman

Retailer | UK’s Largest Private Landlord | Experienced Natural Resources Professional

A natural leader and previously one of the largest private landlords in the UK, David has over 27 years of experience in the property sector as both a developer and a landlord. David has previously built significant personal and corporate portfolios, consisting of developments in excess of £500 million of both residential and commercial property. Following his initial retirement from the property sector, David partnered with SNR Dentons as a commodity advisor in the precious metals industry, before launching his own venture in the natural resources sector, Lusso Tesoro (now Seventy Ninth Resources).

As Chairman of the Seventy Ninth Group, David oversees the overall direction and growth of the Group and its subsidiaries, continuously seeking out new and exciting opportunities that elevate our operations to new heights. Additionally, David has won Asset Management Chairman of the Year at CEO Monthly’s Chairperson Awards for the last two years running.

Jake Webster

Managing Director

Portfolio Management | Corporate Finance | Pilot

Working as Managing Director across the Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries, Jake is highly experienced and proficient in portfolio management, deal structuring and private finance. Jake has been heavily involved in the natural resources and asset management sectors for several years, working internationally with central banks and global commodity houses to establish and arrange finance for projects and commodity supply chains.

Jake is a fully qualified pilot who holds an EASA license, as well as a martial arts instructor. Jake also studied at the American Institute of Diamond Cutting and is a certified rough diamond grader and won the International Young Entrepreneur Award at the Global Business Excellence Awards 2022.

Curtis Webster

Investment Director

Online Retailer | Entrepreneur | Capital Markets

An organised and hard-working professional, Curtis followed in his family’s footsteps and entered the real estate and natural resources sectors. Within his role at the Seventy Ninth Group, Curtis provides valuable support to our stakeholders situated across the globe, managing new and existing relationships as well as overseeing the Seventy Ninth Group’s existing and future capital raising activities. Over recent years, Curtis has gained significant experience in natural resources, with a particular focus on mineral extraction and general supply chain management.

Curtis is a keen martial artist, practising both Muay Thai and Brazilian jiujitsu. Additionally, Curtis won Outstanding Young Executive (under 35 years) at the Global Business Excellence Awards 2022.

Natalie Bellis

Chief Executive Officer

Global Regulatory Auditor | Risk Committee Chairwoman for Investment and Savings

Throughout her career, Natalie has been appointed across a wide range of governance roles, including being a regulatory auditor for globally established brands such as Selfridges, EasyJet, Toyota and Nintendo. Natalie has also led large, well-known retail and financial services operations with over 500 employees in each sector, delivering their corporate strategies alongside chairing Corporate Risk Committees. A highly experienced compliance specialist with a wealth of regulatory and administrative knowledge, Natalie has over 10 years in the sector and has a background in creating and implementing governance frameworks and FCA regulations.

As CEO of the Seventy Ninth Group, Natalie defines and oversees the company’s primary goals and objectives, leading a team of executives to deliver major business milestones, including acquisitions, mergers, joint ventures and large-scale expansion. Natalie also won the Outstanding Personal Achievement Award at the Global Business Excellence Awards 2022.

Andy Cole CBE

Board Advisor

A Board Advisor to the Seventy Ninth Group, Andy is a senior tax professional who enjoyed a distinguished career as Director of Specialist Investigations within HMRC for over 40 years. He is an expert in complex fraud and avoidance risks and played a leading role in developing HMRC’s strategy for tackling aggressive tax avoidance.

From 2009, Andy led HMRC’s compliance response in tackling offshore tax evasion. He was also the lead negotiator of the Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility and similar agreements with the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, and Switzerland.

In 2012, as Director of Specialist Investigations, Andy oversaw a team of approximately 1,700 specialist investigators, technicians, accountants, and insolvency experts. He also held senior appointments to various governance and assurance groups, including the Tax Dispute Resolution Board and the Alternative Disputes Resolution Board.

As well as his day-to-day involvement as a Board Advisor, Andy’s role is to structure tax planning for The Seventy Ninth Group. He oversees the relationship we have with our accountancy partners, including Deloitte and Ernst & Young, to ensure we stay at the cutting edge of tax planning.

Andy was awarded a CBE in 2011 in recognition of his exceptional achievements as Director of Specialist Investigations at H.M Revenue and Customs.

Adriènne Kelbie CBE

Board Advisor

An inspiring and award-winning transformational leader, Adriènne brings over 25 years of leadership experience in high-profile public sector organisations spanning community funding, local authorities, safeguarding, criminal records and nuclear regulation.

Adriènne has spoken to global audiences about the importance of psychological safety, inclusion and cognitive diversity to high performing teams. Most recently, Adriènne led the UK’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) to international credit for its effective stakeholder engagement, strong international contribution and enabling regulation.

Genevieve Pearson

Non-Executive Director

Genevieve has over 20 years extensive project and operational experience across commodities in Africa. Following deep level gold mining experience in South Africa she ran Greenfields gold exploration projects. Over the years she has developed experience in artisanal to large-scale gold mining and exploration projects.

As an independent consultant, she has advised investors, commodity traders and mining companies on their various strategies for investing in a range of exploration and mining projects across commodities throughout Africa.

Gary Pitts

Board Advisor

Gary has been a compliance professional for over 27 years, beginning his career at Lautro and the Personal Investment Authority and including spells at Threadneedle, Henderson, Head of Compliance at hedge fund Brevan Howard, and Head of Compliance in Europe, Mid-East, Africa and Japan for a boutique investment bank.

Since 2013, he has run his own regulatory and training consultancy, Tetractys, with operations in the UK and Ireland. He delivers open and bespoke training courses and external Board effectiveness assessments alongside his consulting work.

Derek Brett

Board Advisor

Derek is an experienced lawyer and law professor, licensed to practice in several jurisdictions, as well as within several federal trial and appellate jurisdictions. Further, to his dedication to enhanced, positive social change has brought him to serving on various public boards, and leadership within a number of non-governmental and politically based organisations.

Throughout his professional history, as both lawyer and law professor, he has diligently maintained a focus on achieving identified objectives. Derek has worked tirelessly for his clients' interests and assisting students in elevating themselves to a higher level of thinking and performance. He continues to emphasise such characteristics in both Nova Scotia and back in the United States.

Graham Small

Board Advisor

Graham specialises in commercial litigation and over the last 25 years has handled many complex disputes. More recently this includes applications for urgent interim relief, professional negligence claims and shareholder disputes

Graham leads JMW's team of lawyers who advise clients across various industries in respect of claims relating to commercial broker commission arrangements. Graham’s team is currently providing advice and assistance to corporate clients in connection with claims for hidden commissions against energy brokers and suppliers.

Lydia Ruiter

Compliance Manager

Lydia has worked in compliance for over six years, including roles as QA Manager and Audit, Risk and Compliance Coordinator. Lydia worked with clients such as BT, EE, River Island and government bodies, responsible for ensuring FCA compliance, ISO standards, Quality Assurance oversight and implementing QA frameworks, risk management systems and developing risk and compliance committees, internally and with clients.

At Seventy Ninth Group, Lydia has developed a compliance framework across all aspects of the company. She implements and upholds business standards documentation and procedures, internal audits and oversees the QA framework, supports the Group’s ESG strategy and maintenance of ISO and other accreditations.

Alicia McMahon

Head of Human Resources

A highly driven, CIPD-qualified manager with over 20 years of human resources experience, Alicia is responsible for improving and protecting the health, happiness and general well-being of our team.

Passionate about building a positive environment for staff, Alicia is complemented by a rich history spanning a variety of sectors, including telecommunications, aerospace, residential care and manufacturing. Her main areas of responsibility include staffing, setting policies, managing employee benefits, retention, training and payroll.

Amy Jones

Client Support & Onboarding Manager

Amy graduated from further education in travel. Her previous role at a well-known life insurance company also saw Amy heavily involved with the business’ compliance procedures, which enables her to provide a fresh perspective and valuable input towards our compliance strategies.

Amy quickly progressed within the company to one of the team leaders, now onto managing the investments department. Amy’s qualifications and previous experience have proven advantageous in gaining a more thorough understanding of the needs of our global client base.

Christopher Johnson

Head of Corporate

Chris studied law at University of Liverpool and has post-graduation qualifications via the Institute of Chartered Legal Executives. Previously, Chris was a partner and director within several national consumer law firms. Across his career, he has helped to develop and build high performing teams, focusing on the implementation of processes and new ways of working to deliver client focus outcomes, within a heavily regulated and altering legal landscape. 

In Chris’ role as Head of Corporate, he will support the Directors and senior management team to develop and implement the strategy of the business, whilst managing teams internally. 

Sara Popplewell

Chief Marketing Officer

Sara has over 25 years' marketing experience including a Master of Science degree in Global Marketing Strategy.  She has previously worked for a range of financial services businesses including Aldermore, MBNA, Co-operative Bank and moneysupermarket.com. Sara currently serves as a Governor for the University of Chester and as Trustee for a local housing charity.

Sara’s role at the Seventy Ninth Group as Chief Marketing Officer will see her shape and deliver the business’s vision and strategic marketing plans, as well as lead and develop the marketing team. 

Simon Larkin

Marketing and Communications Manager

As a Chartered Marketer (CMktr) and a distinguished Fellow member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM) and with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art and Design, Simon brings over 18 years of rich experience within strategic marketing and branding positions to our dynamic team. Beyond his roles in strategic leadership, Simon has also worked as a self-employed marketing consultant and freelance graphic/web designer. 

Simon has navigated various Head of Marketing and Communication positions across diverse industries such as Finance and Insurance, Mergers and Acquisitions, Construction, Technology, and Travel. During this time, he has led multiple marketing campaigns for esteemed brands such as Renault, Nissan, Samsung, Princess Yachts, Wells Fargo, and Admiral Insurance.  At the Seventy Ninth Group, Simon leads our marketing team, injecting a strategic vision into our campaigns. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with an understanding of different sectors will inform the development of tailored and impactful marketing strategies.  

Dave Eastwood

Marketing Manager

Dave has over 25 years’ experience across the Marketing mix. This experience has been gained in industries including Travel, Business Support, Finance and Leisure. 

At the Seventy Ninth Group, Dave’s role as Marketing Manager will see him work across the business to develop and deliver impactful marketing campaigns, supporting both global projects and local initiatives. Dave is committed to bringing a customer-centric approach to the campaigns he delivers. 

Eleanor Longworth

Interim Onboarding Manager

Eleanor studied business management at Edge Hill University. Upon leaving, Eleanor worked in accounts for a nationwide retailer and was then Team Leader for an Insurance Brokerage before becoming Sales Team Leader for a Sales and Marketing Consultancy. As an Onboarding Manager, Eleanor oversees the investment team, monitoring their performance and workload

Chris Way

Group Sales Manager

Chris has led a successful career in sales across multiple sectors. Having previously worked his way up and finding his niche in investment property sales, Chris brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in driving sales volume and building high performance sales teams with a focus on continuous improvement using market knowledge, competitor research and team motivation.

Chris’ role at the Seventy Ninth Group as the Group Sales Manager will see him shape and deliver a new direct sales team for the business in line with the company's growth strategy.

Ashley Weston

Head of Operations

Ashley previously worked at a family-owned company for eight years, acquiring various business and accounts qualifications. Ashley started in the Investment Team, before her role developed to Finance Manager, where she reviewed internal finance procedures and co-ordinated the company’s finance processes. 

Ashley has progressed to Head of Operations, where she will oversee both the Investment and Finance Teams, ensuring smooth running of these departments and their activities.  

Georgia Peach

Senior Account Manager

Georgia has a sales background in the insurance sector, as well as experience working in pensions. This has allowed her to gain key networking skills which help her to build rapport with clients. Georgia’s role involves working closely with the onboarding officers to support our investors and to foster good relationships across the business. This includes tracking the progress of all relationships and ensuring investors’ needs are met and enquiries are dealt with accordingly.

Sean Berry

Onboarding Executive

Sean began his working life at Betfred, where he gained experience working with a focus on customer service and exposure to both anti-money laundering and anti-bribery processes. At the Seventy Ninth Group, Sean’s position as an Onboarding Team Leader sees him working closely with our investors, ensuring that strong relationships are created and maintained throughout the entire client journey. 

Craig Johnson

Onboarding Officer

After finishing Music Production in college, Craig went on to work for British Gas as an Emergency Dispatcher and moved on to work from home as an Out of Hours Dispatcher, liaising with both engineers and customers. At the Seventy Ninth Group as an Onboarding Officer, Craig helps with the onboarding process and can jump into various work streams to assist both clients and colleagues.

Cristina Mason

Onboarding Officer

Cristina has a background in the travel and leisure industry, with more than 25 years of experience dealing with high-net-worth clients including organising and leading Arctic and Antarctic voyages. She spent 10 years living and working in British diplomatic missions overseas, and has recently relocated to England after living for the past ten years in Patagonia. She speaks several languages, which has allowed her to enjoy interactions with clients from all over the world.  

In her role as an Onboarding Officer, Cristina will assist in the onboarding process of new clients, supporting the Investment team in all required areas.  

Celestina Durosaro

Onboarding Officer

Celestina has over 5 years' experience within the housing sector, specifically working as a Mechanical and Electrical Programmer, ensuring all contractors are compliant with processes and procedures. Celestina has worked for various banks such as Santander, building on the skills she learnt in an anti-money laundering and financial crime course.  

At the Seventy Ninth Group, Celestina is part of the Investment team, where she carries out due diligence and anti-money laundering checks, making the onboarding process efficient for clients.  

David Andrews DipPFS

Strategic Partner Manager

David has over 7 years’ experience as a qualified Financial Advisor providing financial advice to trustees, business owners and investors. David has joined the Seventy Ninth Group as a Strategic Partner Manager, managing the relationships with both investors and joint venture partners.

Phil Hayton

Digital Marketing & Events Manager

Initially intending to work as an accountant, Phil trained towards his qualifications at Big Four financial services company, KPMG, working there until he ultimately decided to focus his efforts on his passion for digital marketing. A highly versatile professional, Phil is responsible for the management of company wide communications and events. Much of Phil’s time is spent on brand, lead generation and social media content creation for the Seventy Ninth Group across a multitude of platforms, from posts covering up-to-date news on the company to informative podcasts and videos.

Georgia Dutton

Design Manager

Georgia has both a BA (Hons) in Media Production and an MA in Animation. She kickstarted her career in graphic design with freelance work before moving into the energy industry at a large energy consultancy company in the Northwest. At the Seventy Ninth Group, Georgia manages the workflow of all the design work and oversees the day-to-day projects for the graphic designers both in-house and external.

Adam Myers

Graphic Designer

Adam has over 12 years commercial graphic design experience working for national brands within the retail, manufacturing, and financial services sectors.

With extensive experience in branding, print production and digital design, Adam brings a dynamic and creative approach to the marketing department to elevate and propel the Seventy Ninth Group brand forward. 

Marianne Rose

Marketing Strategy Manager

Marianne holds a BSc (Honours) degree in International Management and Modern Languages (French) from the University of Bath, where she specialised in Marketing. Along with a Level 6 CIM diploma in Digital Marketing Strategy, Marianne has over 2 decades of experience in the marketing field, based in hospitality. Marianne is seasoned in delivering successful marketing strategies that drive business growth and ROI.  

At the Seventy Ninth Group, Marianne brings her expertise in strategic planning, brand management and digital marketing to the role of Marketing Strategy Manager.

Hannah Gregg

Marketing Executive

Hannah graduated with first class honours in BA (Hons) Media, Communication, Cultures from Leeds Beckett University. After she graduated, she moved on to retail where she stayed for just over a year. As marketing assistant, Hannah supports the entire marketing team with digital content, PR, events production and more.

Sam Gerken

Marketing Executive

Sam graduated with Joint Honours in BA Drama and Film Studies. After he graduated, Sam moved on to gain a master's degree in international creative enterprise. Following his studies, Sam lead the Marketing and Communications for a private health centre before joining the Seventy Ninth Group. As Marketing Executive, Sam supports the entire marketing team with digital content production and editing, social media, copywriting and more.

Ella Simpson - Williams

Business Support Manager

Ella studied Law with Criminology at Edge Hill University and graduated in 2019 with a first-class degree. She then went to work for Weightmans as Legal Engineer where she worked alongside legal professionals to help bridge the gap between the legal world and tech.

Ella joined the Seventy Ninth Group as Executive Assistant to the CEO and has now expanded her role to Business Support Manager, where she oversees both internal and external projects, and liaises with stakeholders to reach project milestones. She manages the Business Support Team, helping to improve business efficiency to accommodate further growth within the company. Ella supports and works closely with the Chairman, Directors, CEO and Senior Management Team.

Jennifer Salcedo

Business Support Manager

Jennifer has a background in real estate with over three years’ experience in the residential property sector. Her BTEC in Business and Enterprise from Southport College gave her valuable business insight. She has previous experience within different sectors of the property market such as conveyancing, identification handling and estate agency work. As Business Support Manager, Jennifer ensures that all related projects are completed efficiently to their best quality, whilst liaising with key stakeholders. She also helps to improve the efficiency of the Business Support Team.

Emma Cox

Facilities Manager

Having trained in Hospitality Management, Emma worked for a hotel chain in Oxfordshire and Middlesex. After moving to the North West, she has worked in several sectors including hospitality, recruitment, medical supplies and building and maintenance, giving her a broad range of administrative skills.

Emma joined the company as Operations Support Assistant and has progressed to Facilities Manager.

Martin Smtih

Property Finance Officer

Martin has over a decade of experience in finance. He previously worked at BDO LLP, where he regularly completed clients personal tax returns, dealt with CIS returns and completed VAT100 forms. This also included processing invoices and completing Profit & Loss statements for directors.

In his role as Purchase Ledger Clerk, Martin will develop and maintain supplier relationships, as well as help with the management of the company accounts, ensuring that all compliance and regulatory standards are kept within the financial space.

Josh Partington

Project Finance Officer

Josh has 3 years of experience in various industries including retail sales, customer service, IT support and medical negligence. These roles meant Josh built his organisational and multitasking skills, by handling claims from new clients.

Josh started as Finance Administrator at the Seventy Ninth Group, where he developed a detailed grasp of the Finance department’s procedure and trained several new team members.

Josh’s current role as Project Finance Officer involves managing budgets, variance, operational expenditure and capital expenditure of several projects. Josh also oversees financial jurisdictions within the Republic of Guinea, streamlining our operations and maximizing efficiency via the creation of SOPS.

Jessica Pavier

Administration Manager

Jessica has over 11 years of experience in the telecommunications industry where she demonstrated strong leadership and achieved significant sales growth. 

Jessica decided to pursue a long-held interest in finance and accounting and completed the AAT qualification.  In her role as Administration Manager, Jessica will apply her analytical and attention to detail skills, processing payments and invoices, ensuring the smooth running of the department.

Sam Jones

Onboarding SME

Sam has over 7 years of experience in the sport retail industry, working in various roles including Regional Manager where he demonstrated strong leadership of his team’s, along with the ability to drive significant changes across business functions, leading the implementation of a new sustainable business model in a flagship retail store.

Sam’s role as Subject Matter Expert will see him use his varied skill set to support the Head of Operations in developing and delivering change across the business through multiple projects as the Seventy Ninth Group continues to grow. He will also support the development and growth of employees through delivery of robust learning and development plans for all company functions and contributing to the company’s ESG initiatives.

Paige Walker

Finance Team Leader

Paige graduated with a degree in Business Management and Finance. Since leaving university, Paige worked in property management. Paige’s role at the Seventy Ninth Group is Finance Team Leader, where she manages the company accounts and deals with daily invoices.

Anastasiia Kozmina

Receptionist

Originally from Ukraine, Anastasiia has a Master's degree in International Law and International Relationships. She has two years' experience as a lawyer. Anastasiia has progressed from the receptionist at our head office, to now being part of the investment team as a Client Onboarding Administrator. In this role, Anastasiia will be more involved in the client journey, ensuring they have support throughout the onboarding process.

Jane Lund

Client Onboarding Administrator

Jane has excellent attention to detail skills, having spent twenty years working as a typographer and fifteen years working in copywriting and proof reading for Littlewoods. She has worked with companies all over the world selling products with Stork Cooperheat UK LTD for twelve and a half years.

This allowed Jane to expand on her excellent sales skills, which she then used in her two years as a Sales Executive for Honda in Southport. As an Client Onboarding Administrator, Jane will ensure the smooth running of the investment team, supporting on administrative tasks and helping to onboard clients.  

Reenu Sehgal

Investor Relations - Corporate

Reenu is a passionate, empathetic and seasoned professional. She has nearly two decades of experience working with one of the largest media companies in MENA; in key account management, corporate sales, strategy, partnerships and relationship management. Over the years, Reenu has created an impressive network within the VC industry, fund managers and family offices. She takes pride in her attention to detail and can create unique and bespoke opportunities for the clients she engages with. She was born in the UAE and considers Dubai her home.

Ben Rockell

Head of Capital Markets

Ben heads the capital raising activities of the Seventy Ninth Group through the company's Dubai-based entity, Seventy Ninth Global. He oversees our fixed-income and private equity divisions raising capital for the Group's projects across the UK property sector and the natural resources sector in the Republic of Guinea. Ben manages and strengthens relationships with, and is trusted by, hundreds of clients and capital partners from over 30 jurisdictions globally.

Previously working for a leading financial brokerage in the Middle East, Ben also qualified as a UK-qualified financial advisor through the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investment (CISI), ensuring he is fully Retail Distribution Review (RDR) and MiFID compliant, with adept knowledge of FCA and PRA regulations.

Patrick Willard

Senior Account Manager

After graduating from Canterbury Christ Church University, Patrick accepted a position at a leading wealth management company in the Middle East. Leading strategic business development and strengthening client management and relationships. Patrick is also ESMA/MiFID II compliant for investment advice through the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investment (CISI); demonstrating thorough understanding of the essentials of financial planning and private client asset management. In his role as Senior Account Manager, Patrick plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day management of, and communication with, prospective and current clients, whilst providing support in implementing strategic solutions to achieve clients' goals.

Jack Gallagher

Onboarding Executive

Jack has experience working for a large hotel chain as a reservation’s agent. Jack is a detail-orientated professional with hands-on experience in utilisation of content development, writing, editing and research skills, with a broad knowledge of computer software, including Microsoft Office, Opera PMS and Guestline

Jack’s role as an Onboarding Executive means he oversees onboarding processes for new clients, as well as ensuring a positive and inclusive working environment.

Ethan Webster

Strategic Partner Associate

Ethan studied Business, Media & Sports at school, before going on to study Uniform Public Services with the intention of starting a career in the Police. Before long Ethan was keen to follow his brothers into the Seventy Ninth Group family business, and bring further value by training as a financial advisor, which he is currently undertaking. In the meantime Ethan is supporting Jake, Curtis and the investments team across various business projects.

Suzanne Wolohan

Marketing Analyst

Suzanne has worked with and consulted for a variety of brands and companies across different industries, including the environmental and extractive oil & petroleum energy sectors. She has worked in both the UK and US before progressing to the Seventy Ninth Group in her role as a Marketing Analyst, leading on insights and analysis for the marketing team and acting as marketing lead for key projects.

Rebecca Lloyd

Onboarding Executive

Rebecca has worked in customer service at an independent spectacle lens supplier, where she managed all customer queries.

Rebecca's role as Client Onboarding Executive will see her support the investment team, with all aspects of onboarding and administrative tasks.

Michelle Mercer

Onboarding Officer

Michelle has over thirty-five years' experience in customer service roles including working in a bookmakers, and The Money Shop, where she sold foreign currency, along with providing loan services and pawnbroking. 

In her role as Onboarding Officer, Michelle will be part of the investment team, ensuring that the onboarding process runs smoothly for both clients and employees.

Matthew Whittaker

Onboarding Officer

Matthew has over 15 years administration and business support experience, gained from working in various roles within local government and the civil service. He has built trusting and effective relationships with a wide range of people and organisations, ensuring satisfaction with service delivery. Matthew has helped to develop new database systems and training, produced management reports and statistics, and monitored budgets.  

In his role as Onboarding Officer, as part of the Investment team, Matthew helps to ensure that all aspects of the onboarding process is as smooth and efficient as possible for both clients and colleagues. 

Paige Moran

Onboarding Officer

Paige has many years of customer service and admin experience, which she has gained from working in a variety of industries, including hospitality and the fitness industry.  During this time, she developed excellent multitasking, communication and problem-solving skills.   

At the Seventy Ninth Group, Paige is part of the Investment team, where she carries out anti-money laundering and due diligence checks for clients, ensuring the onboarding process is smooth.  

Matthew Thomas

Client Onboarding Administrator

Matt has spent the last 8 years working in insurance, firstly in the customer services team and then moving into the administration team. Matt then went on to work as a system support analyst.

At the Seventy Ninth Group as a Client Onboarding Administrator, Matt will help with the onboarding process, assisting the investment team with all aspects of onboarding and administrative tasks.

Liene Buklagina

Account Manager

Originally from Latvia, Liene worked in Preston Magistrates Court as court clerk after university, before moving back home to work as a sanctions screening specialist for the SEB (Banking) Group. After gaining experience in both sectors, Liene moved on to working as Junior Compliance Specialist.

Liene joined the Seventy Ninth Group as a Client Onboarding Administrator, and has progressed to an Account Manager, where she will develop and maintain relationships with our clients, ensuring for a smooth experience. 

Leo Bilal

Account Manager

Leo was previously an investment analyst for an investment firm that focused on private equity and real estate. In this role, Leo helped increase the yearly revenue of one of the assets by analysing performance in comparison to the rest of the market. 

In his role as Account Manager at the Seventy Ninth Group, Leo will communicate and build relationships with our clients and agents, to provide a seamless client journey.  

Olivia Cassim

Account Manager

Olivia has 4 years of customer service experience from working in a retail environment, before moving to work within local government, where she dealt with 150 services and answering client queries. She had direct contact with clients, ensuring that they were all satisfied.  

At the Seventy Ninth Group, Olivia is an Account Manager, where she will connect directly with clients and is on hand to deal with any queries. 

Anastasia Lawrence

Quality Assurance Coordinator

Anastasia has a background in customer service and sales, as well as 4 years in the banking industry as part of a specialist team assisting multiple departments such as Fraud, Savings and Retail. Anastasia has experience in Insurance, Auditing and Compliance and her last role saw her supporting the leadership and management needs of SME’s. 

Anastasia’s role as Quality Assurance Coordinator will see her assisting the Investment team, ensuring that the onboarding process is smooth and seamless.  

Rebecca Johnson

Client Relationship Officer

Rebecca has 16 years of customer service and admin experience which she has gained from various roles. During this time, she developed excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Rebecca started as Receptionist at the Seventy Ninth Group and has progressed to the Investment team as a Client Relationship Officer. In this role, she ensures the onboarding process runs seamlessly for both clients and colleagues.   

Emily Reeder

Executive Administration Assistant

Emily has experience in receptionist and customer service management job roles. These included diary management, call handling, housekeeping and administrative duties, as well as excellent customer service skills. Emily's role as Executive Administration Assistant will help to ensure the efficient operation of the Executive Team.

Ben Lawrence

IT Technician

Ben worked as a Junior IT technician for 2 years before enrolling at Edge Hill University to study Cyber Security, where he received first class honours. At the Seventy Ninth Group, Ben's role as IT technician sees him help with inquiries or problems regarding our IT infrastructure as well as maintaining and installing new equipment.

Mia Lock-Ratcliffe

Risk & Compliance Coordinator

Mia graduated with Upper Second-Class Honours in Law from Edge Hill University. During her studies, she worked at a leading law firm specialising in medical negligence, where she dealt with new enquiries

As Risk & Compliance Coordinator at the Seventy Ninth Group, Mia will assist the Head of Compliance to protect the assets, reputation, and sustainability of the business. This is done by following the business’ Compliance policies and procedures, ensuring that all corporate processes and procedures comply with the law, and internal standards.

Lauren Hughes

Finance Team Leader

Lauren is a business management and finance graduate and has previous experience in administrative and customer service roles.

Lauren’s role as Finance Officer at the Seventy Ninth Group sees her responsible for day-to-day tasks such as processing payments and invoices, ensuring the smooth running of the Finance Team.

David Brenkley

Strategic Partner Consultant

With 7 years of experience as an Introducing Broker, David specialises in alternative investments and managing foreign client enrolment.

Previously, as the Managing Director at Travel Repay Ltd, David successfully oversaw a regulated claims management company and ensured compliance with Ministry of Justice regulations. He also has experience as a manager and director, where he demonstrated expertise in finance, leadership, and regulatory compliance. David's role as Strategic Partner Consultant at the Seventy Ninth Group, sees him expanding our introducer network, inviting new partners to refer investors to our exclusive investment products.

Heather Crompton

Client Onboarding Administrator

Heather has 26 years of experience in Business Administration with a strong focus on customer service. She has worked in wide variety of industries, from construction companies to the care industry. In Heather's last two roles, she has championed the roll-out of new CRM applications, ensuring a streamlined customer experience.

Heather's role at the Seventy Ninth Group as an Investment Onboarding Administrator will see her support the investment team, including administrative tasks and onboarding clients.

Chloe Cassim

Senior Client Relationship Officer

Chloe has a background in retail, working in betting shops as a customer service manager. She also has experience in admin, working for an event management company. Chloe's role as Client Relationship Officer sees her use these skills to help support clients and resolve any issues for a seamless customer experience.

Ellis Harper

Client Relationship Officer

With vast experience in both B2B and B2C sales, Ellis has developed a strong track record of driving revenue and building lasting client relationships. With experience across the commercial energy, sustainable energy and insurance sectors, Ellis offers a well-rounded approach to sales strategy and customer engagement.

In his role as Client Relationship Officer, Ellis is focussed on delivering tailored solutions that meet clients' unique needs, while supporting business growth. 

Penelope Bennett

Client Relationship Officer & Account Manager

Penelope has a diverse business background from many years in Retail Banking, onboarding new business to a group, to an entrepreneurial start up business owner. She is highly skilled and knowledgeable about the priorities clients rightly expect from their financial assets, with her undertaking both CEMAP and CIOB professional examinations.  

At the Seventy Ninth Group, Penelope is a Client Relationship Officer with a hybrid role as an Account Manager. In this role, Penelope will be checking in with clients and introducers, ensuring we deliver an outstanding level of service. 

Amber Disley

Quality Assurance Administrator

Amber worked in the civil service as a team leader, helping her gain skills in people management, building effective relationships, and giving her exposure to fraud processes

As Quality Assurance Administrator, Amber supports the Investment team in the onboarding of clients.   

Daniel Noonan

Client Relationship Officer

Daniel has over 7 years’ experience in sales and specialises in direct and indirect marketing. Previously as a Managing Partner at Global Sales Partners Ltd, Daniel successfully managed sales teams which focused on direct marketing for Fortune 500 companies. In this role, he demonstrated expertise in leadership, negotiations and building rapport with clients.  

Daniel’s role as Client Relationship Officer sees him use these skills to help support clients ensuring a smooth customer experience. 

Joseph Mawdsley

Project Manager

Joe completed his bachelor's degree in law in 2010, before going on to train as a teacher. Having completed his teacher training, Joe set up his own logistics business where he discovered his passion for projects. Whilst managing projects for a local charity, Joe went on to attain his PRINCE2 foundation and practitioner qualifications, which when combined with his extensive experience running projects across industries, enabled Joe to establish a firm grasp of project management methodology and execution. As a Project Manager at the Seventy Ninth Group, Joe monitors and reports on all projects, both domestic and abroad, throughout their lifecycle.

Yasmine Bessaih

Group Fund Manager

Yasmine has over 10 years' experience working with some of the UK's most established Private Equity and Venture Capital fund managers such as TDR Capital, RoundShield Partners, Hoxton Ventures and Blenheim Chalcot. .

Previously appointed as a Senior Fund Operations Manager at Blenheim Chalcot, Yasmine played a key role in strategic planning and reporting, overseeing day-to-day fund operations, executing new product launches, investment structuring and managing investor relations on behalf of the UK regulated fund manager. She is a board member of the Middlesex University Alumni Association in Finance and Accountancy where she graduated with a BA Hons in Finance and is also accredited by the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association.

As the Group Fund Manager at the Seventy Ninth Group, Yasmine is responsible for developing and executing the private equity fund's investment strategy and performance, fund raising and providing personalised investment solutions to clients.

Charity

The Seventy Ninth Group and its subsidiaries are dedicated to giving back to the communities in which we operate.

From the locality surrounding our head office in the United Kingdom to the people of West Africa who live in and around our natural resource concessions, we ensure that charity is always at the heart of what we do.